Six Methods Of Observation Flashcards
Testing method definition
Several types of tests measure various elements of human behavior such as abilities, interests, and personality
Testing Method Advantages
Enables researchers to gain insight to certain aspects of an individual’s abilities or behaviors
Testing Methods Disadvantages
Does not always provide a complete or accurate representation of an individual’s true abilities or personality
Case study method description
Researchers conduct
in-depth investiga-
tions of individuals or
small groups.
Case study Method Advantages
Provides insight to specific cases
Case study Method Disadvantages
May focus on isolated circumstances or events that cannot be replicated.
People interviewed in case
studies may distort their
past experiences.
Researchers may unintentionally encourage people to answer questions a certain way.
Longitudinal Method description
A group of participants at are observed at intervals over an extended period of time
Longitudinal advantages
Enables researchers to see how individuals change over time
Longitudinal disadvantages
Time consuming and expensive
Participants may not be available for the duration of the study
Cross Sectional description
Researchers compare the differences and similarities among people in different age groups at a given time
Cross sectional advantages
Less time consuming than the longitudinal method for studying changes over time
Cross sectional Method disadvantages
Differences between the members of the sample cannot necessarily be attributed to age or development
Naturalistic Observation method definition
Researchers observe the behavior of people or animals in their natural habitats
Naturalistic Observation method advantages
Enables researchers to witness the behavior of peoples or animals in setting that are not artificial
Naturalistic Observation Method disadvantages
Researchers have no control over the setting or events that occur
Laboratory Observation method description
Participants are observed in a laboratory setting
Laboratory observation method advantages
Enables researchers to control certain aspects of the study
Laboratory Observation method Disadvantages
Laboratories cannot duplicate real life environments
